How much do death certificates cost in Colorado?
Certified copies from CDPHE cost $25 for the first copy and $20 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. These fees took effect January 1, 2026. County vital records offices set their own fees, which typically range from $20 to $27 per copy.
| Source | Cost per copy |
|---|---|
| CDPHE (state, mail/in person) | $25 first, $20 each additional |
| County vital records offices | $20 to $27 (varies by county) |
| Third-party online services | State fee + $10 to $30 processing fee |
The state fee is a non-refundable search fee, charged even if no record is found. Some county offices that accept credit or debit cards charge a service fee of around 2.25% on card transactions.
How to order
Through a funeral home (fastest for new deaths)
Your funeral director orders the first batch as part of their services. This is the simplest and fastest route for recently filed death certificates.
From your county vital records office
Each of Colorado's 64 counties has a vital records office that can issue death certificates for deaths that occurred in that county. This is often faster than ordering from the state.
- In person: Some offices provide same-day service. Bring a valid photo ID.
- By mail: Send a completed request form with payment (check or money order) and a copy of your ID.
- Online: Some counties offer online ordering through VitalChek or similar services, with additional processing fees.
From CDPHE (state level)
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment handles death certificates for deaths that occurred anywhere in the state.
- Online: Orders through the CDPHE portal take approximately 30 business days to process and deliver.
- By mail: Send a completed application with a check or money order payable to "Vital Records Section." Mail orders typically take 4 to 6 weeks.
- In person: Visit the Vital Records office in Denver by appointment. Same-day service may be available for records on file.
Processing times
| Method | Typical timeline |
|---|---|
| Funeral home | 2 to 4 weeks |
| County office (in person) | Same day to 5 business days |
| CDPHE online portal | ~30 business days |
| CDPHE by mail | 4 to 6 weeks |
County offices are generally faster than the state office for in-person requests. If you need copies quickly, check whether your county offers walk-in service.
How many copies do you need?
Order at least 8 to 10 certified copies. You will need one for each bank, insurance company, retirement account, and government agency you contact. Some institutions keep the copy you submit.
For a complete breakdown of where you will need certified copies, see our guide on how to get death certificates.
Who can order?
Colorado restricts certified death certificates to:
- Spouse or domestic partner
- Parent or child of the deceased
- Grandparent or sibling
- The executor or personal representative of the estate
- A legal guardian or attorney acting on behalf of the family
- Anyone with a court order
You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID and state your relationship to the deceased when ordering.
What to know about Colorado specifically
64 counties, 64 fee schedules. Colorado's county-based system means fees and processing times vary depending on where you order. Always check with the specific county vital records office for current pricing.
The 2026 fee increase. As of January 1, 2026, the state-level fee increased to $25 for the first copy (previously $20 in many counties). Additional copies remain $20 each when ordered at the same time.
10-day will filing rule. If you are handling the estate, remember that Colorado requires the will to be filed with the District Court within 10 days of the death. You will need at least one certified death certificate for the probate filing. For more on the probate process, see our guide on how probate works in Colorado.
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